Washington National Opera

Upcoming Events

Mar 3 - Mar 17, 2018

Family ties fray and unravel in Verdi's spectacle of forbidden passion, political intrigue, and shattering betrayal set at the height of the Spanish Empire. More than 20 years have passed since WNO last staged this grand masterpiece in four acts, and now a solid-gold cast heralds its return in this stunning new production.

Apr 28 - May 19, 2018

"Figaro! Figaro! Fiiigarooo!" Can the sharp-witted barber of Seville help Count Almaviva woo the beautiful Rosina away from a bumbling doctor? A stellar cast joins this WNO revival of Rossini's delightful comedy--one of the most beloved opera masterpieces of all time, boasting uproarious laughs and sensational music in equal measure.

May 5 - May 26, 2018

In Leonard Bernstein's funny, philosophical, and fast-paced take on Voltaire's biting satire, very bad things happen to very good people (and plenty of bad ones too) as a terrific ensemble cast quick-change their way through an effervescent score that includes such classic tunes as "Make Our Garden Grow" and "Glitter and Be Gay."

Thu, Oct 4, 2018, 7:30 PM

Oct 6 - Oct 21, 2018

Violetta delights in high-class pleasures, but she is secretly dying. Will she know true love before death claims her? We launch the 2018–2019 season with a stunning new production of Verdi’s everlasting story of fate and sacrifice, renowned for its soaring arias and heart-wrenching ending.

Nov 10 - Nov 25, 2018

On Christmas Eve at the height of World War I, a spontaneous cease-fire arises between enemy soldiers. Based on the true story and 2005 film, Silent Night features Pulitzer Prize–winning music in multiple languages, capturing humanity and hope amidst a devastating war.

Dec 14 - Dec 16, 2018

As the first Christmas nears, a special character will share the Nativity story from his perspective: the donkey! Director Francesca Zambello brings the award-winning children's book to vibrant life in this heartwarming family opera, revived after its acclaimed 2013 world premiere.

Jan 11 - Jan 13, 2019

This world premiere is the story of 25-year-old Kayla, the estranged daughter of a fire-and-brimstone preacher who is dangerously bitten by one of his own snakes. Kayla’s journey home forces her to confront her troubled upbringing.

Sat, Jan 12

Three world premiere short operas will be staged in a concert performance, accompanied by a small chamber orchestra and followed by a Q&A with the artists and creative team. This season's distinguished mentors include composer Jake Heggie, composer and librettist Gene Scheer, and conductor Steven Osgood.

Mar 9 - Mar 29, 2019

Time shifts desires—and one will regret his choice—in Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece of unrequited love and missed opportunities, inspired by Pushkin’s novel. More than 30 years have passed since WNO last staged this dramatic tale of rejection and remorse, and now a visually stunning production marks its return.

Mar 16 - Mar 30, 2019

A deal with the devil goes awry in Gounod’s captivating tragedy. The aging Faust makes a pact with Méphistophélès to exchange his soul for Earth's mortal pleasures. But along the seductive path to riches and power, Faust will realize his salvation is devastatingly bound to others.

May 11 - May 25, 2019

Love gets political in Puccini’s striking drama set against 18th-century Rome. Passionate singer Tosca takes matters into her own hands when dreaded chief of police Scarpia hunts for her lover. But no one is guaranteed to get out alive.